India-France Strategic Partnership: PM Modi, French President Macron reaffirm their vision for bilateral cooperation, economic prosperity

Declaring 2026 as India-France Year of Innovation, the leaders expressed a shared commitment to addressing global challenges, promoting multilateralism, and contributing to a stable international order.

India-France Strategic Partnership, image credit: Reuters

During French President Emmanuel Macron's State visit to India for Republic Day celebrations, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Macron underscored the significance of the India-France Strategic Partnership in fostering prosperity, economic resilience, and enhanced security. The leaders expressed a shared commitment to addressing global challenges, promoting multilateralism, and contributing to a stable international order.

Horizon 2047 Vision

Referring to the vision outlined in Horizon 2047 and other documents from the July 2023 Summit, both leaders acknowledged the progress in bilateral cooperation. They pledged to expedite collaboration across three key pillars: Partnership for Peace and Prosperity, Partnership for Planet, and Partnership for People. This commitment aims to strengthen their dedication to sovereignty and strategic autonomy, according to a joint official statement by both sides.

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Global Engagement and Multilateral Initiatives

In-depth discussions were held on long-term global challenges, with an emphasis on converging interests and approaches. The leaders agreed to intensify their global and regional engagement through multilateral initiatives and institutions, affirming their commitment to a cohesive and united world.

President Macron's Reflections

President Macron, expressing gratitude for the warm welcome, highlighted the enduring friendship between France and India. He recalled the success of India's G20 and expressed honor in returning to India, acknowledging the participation of French soldiers alongside their Indian counterparts as an unforgettable memory.

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Comprehensive Dialogue on Global Issues and Environmental Commitments

Prime Minister Modi and President Macron announced the establishment of a Comprehensive Dialogue on Global Issues to facilitate consultations on political matters and global challenges such as oceans, climate change, biodiversity, pollution, and digital issues. The leaders reiterated their determination to combat plastic pollution and called for a consensus on a legally binding treaty to end plastic pollution.

Environmental Commitments and International Initiatives

The joint statement emphasised increased cooperation within the context of the three COPs of the Rio Convention (climate, biodiversity, and desertification) to develop joint ambitions and promote synergies. The leaders affirmed their commitment to collectively address climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution.

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Acknowledging President Macron's 2023 international initiatives, including the New Global Financing Pact Summit and the One Planet - Polar Summit, Prime Minister Modi commended these efforts. The leaders looked forward to the third UN Ocean Conference (UNOC3) in 2025, with India's commitment to host COP33 in 2028 receiving support from President Macron.

The joint statement also highlighted India's decision to join the "Mercator" initiative for creating a global 'digital twin' of the Ocean and its participation in the Global Forum on "Buildings and Climate," co-organised by France and the United Nations Environment Program in Paris in March 2024.

In conclusion, the joint statement reflects the shared commitment of India and France to a comprehensive strategic partnership that not only addresses global challenges but also fosters economic prosperity, environmental sustainability, and international cooperation.

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